How do I take amoxicillin?

What is the dose of amoxicillin and how often should I take it?

The dose of amoxicillin prescribed and how long it needs to be taken for depends on the type and severity of infection you have, your age, weight and kidney function.

Follow the instructions given by your doctor. These will be printed on the dispensing label that your pharmacist has put on the packet of medicine.

Amoxicillin is usually taken three times a day, but always follow the instructions given by your doctor (for instance some infections only require one or two doses and amoxicillin is taken twice a day for H pylori eradication).

Try and space your doses evenly over your waking hours. For example, adults who've been prescribed a dose three times a day could take one dose at 7am, one at 3pm and one at 11pm. However, children prescribed a dose three times a day could be given the medicine at 7am, 1pm and 7pm. You can ask your pharmacist for more advice.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it is important that you finish the prescribed course of amoxicillin, even if you feel better or it seems the infection has cleared up. Stopping the course early increases the chance that the infection will come back and that the bacteria will grow resistant to the antibiotic.

How do I take amoxicillin?

You may be given amoxicillin in the form of capsules, sachets of powder or liquid suspension.

Amoxicillin capsules should be swallowed with a drink.

The contents of amoxicillin sachets should be mixed into half a glass of water just before taking.

Bottles of amoxicillin suspension should be shaken before measuring out a dose. Only use the measuring spoon or oral syringe provided with the suspension. Don't use a regular teaspoon or tablespoon to give the medicine, as this will not give an accurate dose.

Should I take amoxicillin with or without food?

Amoxicillin can be taken either with or without food, on a full or empty stomach.

What should I do if I miss a dose of amoxicillin?

If you forget to take a dose of amoxicillin at the correct time, take it as soon as you remember and then space the rest of your doses over the remaining part of the day. Always try to take the correct number of doses each day, leaving at least four hours between doses. Don't take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.